How to Change a Tire

Experiencing a flat tire or noticing that your tire treads have worn down significantly can be a hassle, especially if you’re far from home. Having an idea of how to change a tire is an invaluable skill that can save you time and ensure your safety, whether you’re stranded on the outskirts of town or navigating through Little River. At Bell And Bell GMC, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to changing a tire and how often to change car tires, ensuring you’re ready for those unexpected moments. Take advantage of our service specials to enhance your tire care experience further!

Changing Your Vehicle’s Tires

To change a tire, you’ll need a few tools such as a jack, a lug wrench, a new or spare tire, and your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Learn how to change a tire on your car, truck, or SUV by following these steps:

1. Find a Safe Location: If you’re near a busy road or in North Myrtle Beach, move to a safer spot and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Secure the Vehicle: Apply the parking brake and place wheel wedges under the opposite tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Remove the Wheel Cover: Take off the wheel cover or hubcap, then loosen the nuts with your lug wrench.
4. Lift the Vehicle: Use the jack to raise your vehicle off the ground, then thoroughly remove the lug nuts.
5. Change the Tire: Take off the current tire and replace it with a new or spare tire.
6. Secure the Tire: Tighten the lug nuts by hand before lowering the vehicle and fully secure them with the wrench.

How Often to Change Car Tires

Knowing how often to change car tires is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance, especially in Myrtle Beach. Regular tire rotation can extend the life of your tires, allowing you to achieve the maximum mileage from them. However, checking your tire pressure and tread depth is essential. Tires with significant tread wear need to be changed. As a general rule, scheduling a tire rotation with every oil change can help ensure your tires wear evenly and last longer.

Steps in Putting Air in Your Tires

Before you change your tire, ensure it’s not simply a matter of low air pressure. Adding air to your tires is a simple task:

• Position Your Vehicle: Park close to the air dispenser, ensuring the hose can reach all tires.
• Check Tire Pressure: Remove the cap from the tire valve and use a tire gauge to check the pressure.
• Adjust Pressure: Use the air hose to add air in short bursts, checking the pressure until it reaches the recommended level.

Spare Tire Usage Guidelines

If you use a spare tire, remember it’s a temporary solution. Spare tires are not for long-term use, typically at most 50 miles. Always adhere to the speed limit recommended for your specific spare tire, usually below 50 mph, and replace it with a permanent tire as soon as possible. When in Conway, replacing your spare tire is especially important due to potentially challenging road conditions.

Seek Expert Assistance at Bell And Bell GMC

Understanding how to change a tire and how often to change car tires are essential aspects of vehicle maintenance that can prevent inconvenient breakdowns. If you’re uncomfortable changing a tire or have questions about which tires are best for your vehicle, Bell And Bell GMC is ready to assist. Contact us for tire-related inquiries or visit our service department in Little River for professional assistance.